I have derusted, primed and repainted the front subframe and oil pan. Underneath, doing this, I see the crossmember is quite corroded too.

Does anyone know if one can simply unbolt the crossmember to remove it? Does more need to be done to take it off? Can it be done with the front of the car on axle stans (i.e. does the crossmember have a supporting function which means special care or consideration is needed to remove it?).

No takers? 

Here's a photo of the rusty cross member (and repainted front subframe) plus one of a detail of the crossmember which looks like the one area one might need to take care.

Anyone else removed the cross member? Can I just unbolt it without worrying about any knock on effects with anything else?

If it’s the panel shown here numbered 11644 it’s just bolted on so can’t see an issue with removing it and having it repainted etc 

Probably better to support/lift the car by the body while removing and refitting just in case there is any slight body movement once it’s removed rather than letting the wheels take the weight. 
 

Hadn’t realised this was common to all Focus models, the one on my ST took a bang at some time and has actually distorted the body where it bolts on 😕

Thanks @troy45 will explore it tomorrow, will go a bit careful until I know what's what and might put a couple of extra stands in. Will also check if anything in Haynes on the torque values for the bolts (if nothing and 13 mm will torque to 50Nm). Car is now on axle stands in the front, as charged clutch and flywheel and rebuilt driveshafts. 

Next year it's the rear subframe...